Charlie Batch declares bankruptcy; could lose super bowl rings

One may ask themselves, “How in the world could a professional athlete ever be in position to declare bankruptcy?” It sounds crazy, right?


Well believe it or not, it happens quite often.

According to a 2009 report, legendary boxer Evander Holyfield has declared bankruptcy twice throughout his career. In 1998, Giants hall of fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor declared bankruptcy after years of financial struggle. Unfortunately, that ordeal turned out to be the least of his problems.

There have been several other claims as well. Some about Mike Tyson, Johnny Unitas, Scottie Pippen, Rollie Fingers; and the list goes on.

Last December, our very own longtime back up quarterback, Charlie Batch, declared chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Supposedly, Batch had been involved in a lot of real estate throughout the Pittsburgh, and Detroit area. At the time of his report, he was $6 million in the hole. According to Batch’s attorney, Doug Campbell, “the worst is over”.

Last week, a bankruptcy court order allowed one secured creditor – Primerock – to pursue Batch’s assets to pay off $800,000. These assets include his two super bowl rings, several autographed jerseys by his fellow teammates, along with eleven game balls.


According to Michael Shiner, chair of the Allegheny County Bar Association’s bankruptcy section, these assets probably won’t be seized.

Regardless of what happened with Batch, one should not think any different of him. He is an excellent role model for the community, and a true Steeler who we should all be confident will get back on track.


written by Alex Muchnok